Do I Need an Accountant or a Bookkeeper? A Perth Accountant Explains

One of the most common questions Perth business owners ask is whether they need an accountant or a bookkeeper. The short answer is that most businesses need both, but for very different reasons.

Understanding the difference can save you money, stress, and serious compliance issues.

What Does a Bookkeeper Do?

A bookkeeper focuses on recording transactions and keeping your financial data organised.

Typical bookkeeping tasks include:

• Entering income and expenses

• Reconciling bank accounts

• Managing invoices and bills

• Processing payroll and super

• Keeping records up to date in software like Xero

A bookkeeper ensures your numbers are accurate and current, but they usually do not provide tax strategy or business advice.

What Does an Accountant Do?

An accountant interprets the numbers and helps you make informed decisions.

A Perth accountant typically helps with:

• Tax planning and minimising tax legally

• Business structure advice

• BAS and tax return review

• Cash flow forecasting

• Profitability and pricing analysis

• Compliance with ATO obligations

• Strategic business advice and growth planning
  

An accountant looks at the bigger picture and future impact, not just past transactions.

Do I Need Both?

In most cases, yes.

A bookkeeper keeps your data clean.A Perth accountant uses that data to protect your business and help it grow.

Without a bookkeeper, your accountant spends time fixing data instead of advising.Without an accountant, you risk overpaying tax, missing deductions, or making poor decisions based on incomplete information.

What If I Am a Small Business or Sole Trader? Even small businesses benefit from having an accountant involved early.

A Perth accountant can help you:

• Choose the right business structure

• Register for GST at the right time

• Avoid common tax mistakes

• Plan for cash flow and tax obligations
  

Many business owners wait too long and end up paying more to fix issues later.

Can One Person Do Both?

Some firms offer combined bookkeeping and accounting services. This can work well if the systems are integrated and reviewed properly.

What matters most is that:

• Your bookkeeping is accurate and up to date

• Your accountant is proactive, not just lodging returns

• You receive advice, not just reports

Why This Matters for Perth Businesses

Local tax rules, payroll obligations, and industry differences matter.

A Perth accountant understands:

• WA specific business environments

• Local industries and cost structures

• ATO compliance trends affecting small businesses

• Cash flow challenges common in Perth based businesses

You can view of list of services here.

Final takeaway

If you are asking whether you need an accountant or a bookkeeper, the real question is whether you want clarity and control over your business finances.

Bookkeepers keep the records straight.

Accountants help you make better decisions.

Working with a Perth accountant who collaborates closely with your bookkeeping function gives you the best of both worlds.

This local knowledge makes a real difference.

If you are unsure how much tax you should be setting aside, read our guide on How Much Tax Should a Small Business Put Aside in Australia.